Chelsea had a rarely-used footballing law to thank for not losing against Crystal Palace, but this was not where their manager, Oliver Glasner’s frustrations ended.
The Blues thought they had gone behind in the first half when an Eberechi Eze free kick flew past Robert Sanchez, however there was VAR drama to come.
Eze’s goal was disallowed due to Marc Guehi being too close to the wall, however Chelsea couldn’t use this let off to go on and win the game, with it ending 0-0.
The rare bright spots for the Blues included Josh Acheampong’s assured performance, as well as an exciting Premier League debut off the bench for Estevao Willian.
FBL-ENG-PR-CHELSEA-CRYSTAL PALACE
Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images
Oliver Glasner furious Estevao Willian was not sent off during Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
The Brazilian brought some much-needed excitement to a rigid Chelsea attack, and certainly put his case forward to be given more opportunities very soon.
He was booked in his cameo appearance, chopping down Daniel Munoz as Palace looked to break away on the counter attack.
Glasner was not happy with the challenge, and according to journalist Bobby Manzi, was remonstrating that the foul should have seen the youngster sent off.
He said: “Glasner fuming that Estevao hasn’t seen red after he hacked down Daniel Munoz, who was in a promising counter-attacking situation.”
MORE CHELSEA STORIES
Chelsea themselves were frustrated in the second half that Jean-Philippe Mateta had not been sent off after standing on Moises Caicedo’s foot. He had been booked in the first half.
Chelsea v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images
Chelsea hoping to avoid 2024/25 discipline repeat
The Blues picked up two yellow cards in the opening game of the season, with Reece James also being carded for a foul on Eze.
Last season saw Chelsea pick up more bookings than any other side, reaching 100 across the 38 game season.
With new rules surrounding who can talk to the referee this season, the Blues will have to be careful to not overstep the mark and pick up unnecessary yellows.
Five bookings at this stage of the season results in a one game ban, with Estevao and James one step closer to that already.